For many of us, flying is described through what we see: clouds drifting below, the view from the window or the runway disappearing into the distance. But for someone who cannot see, flight is experienced through sound, movement, sensation and touch.
Recently, eight of our amazing young people discovered exactly what flying feels like, thanks to a special experience with Aerobility at Blackbushe Airport.
From the moment they arrived, there was excitement and anticipation. For some, stepping into an aircraft was completely new, with unfamiliar sounds, controls and sensations to explore.
Then came the moment they had been waiting for: taking to the skies.
An experience they could feel
The young people experienced different aspects of aviation, including flying in a two-seater electric aircraft, a four-seater plane and using flight simulators.
For those who took to the air, the experience was about much more than travelling. They could feel the aircraft accelerate along the runway, experience the movement as it lifted into the air and listen to the sounds of the engine and world around them.
Some even had the opportunity to take the controls themselves, giving them a real sense of what it means to fly.
For young people who may face barriers to accessing certain experiences, opportunities like this can be incredibly empowering. It is a chance to discover, “I can do this.”
The simulators also allowed everyone to explore aviation and experience the controls in a safe and engaging environment.
Building confidence and independence
Experiences like this are about much more than the excitement of the day. Sensory experiences can help young people develop confidence, understanding and independence, while building their confidence in unfamiliar environments.
For our young people, this was a chance to try something extraordinary, challenge themselves and create memories to treasure for years to come.
Seeing their reactions was particularly special. Excitement, curiosity, concentration and plenty of smiles made it a day to remember.
A heartfelt thank you
A huge and heartfelt thank you to the entire Aerobility team and their dedicated instructors for making the experience so welcoming, inclusive and memorable.
We are also incredibly grateful to the Mark Long Trust for helping make this amazing opportunity possible.
Their generosity and support enabled eight of our young people to try something new, explore their independence and experience the freedom and exhilaration of flight.